How to Get Improve your Writing and Boost Your Income
Over the last twenty-plus years as an SEO copywriter and BtoB content strategist, I’ve seen good writing and terrible writing.
I’ve seen excellent job-applications and pathetic attempts at getting hired.
I’ve seen new copywriters miss opportunities and experienced writers ruin working relationships. And after spending hours over the last few weeks editing a project by an outside writer, I am inspired to write this post.
If you are a copywriter, you may be wondering how you can get more work and boost your income significantly. Well, it doesn’t need to be difficult. You just need to be responsible, professional and avoid these…
5 Ways Never to Get Repeat Work as a Copywriter
1. Don’t follow directions.
When it comes to finding work as a copywriter, and actually doing the work, it’s essential to pay attention to what the client wants. Know the details, and if you don’t have them, ask for them.
For example, when I post a request for writers and specifically tell applicants NOT to send any attachments, you would not believe how many applicants send me an e-mail with an attachment… or two or three. Guess which e-mails end up in the trash or junk folder?
Here’s another example. Let’s say you have been hired for a writing project. You move forward without getting specific directions from the client, or you ignore simple information you need like the tone, style, and length of your assignment. You send in your project, but you make a bad, first-impression because the client is not happy with your work.
If you simply focus on what the client asks for, you can start off new relationships the right way and have a better chance of obtaining long-term work.
2. Turn in work without proofreading.
Are you in a hurry and “churn out” work to move on to the next assignment and more money? Be careful.
Before you send your final documents in, proofread them carefully. Check the grammar, spelling, resources, links, tone, style, and more. If not, your clients are not going to appreciate the fact that they have to waste time editing your documents. And your chances of being rehired by them are slim.
3. Miss a deadline.
Miss a deadline, and it costs your client time, money and resources. Enough said.
4. Communicate with the client accordingly.
It’s essential to communicate with your clients about all aspects of a writing project so you are both “on the same page.” You need to get all of your questions answered, ensure that your client knows what you are writing, and why, and your processes.
This way, there is no confusion, you and your clients know what to expect, and you are more likely to have successful results.
5. Follow-up.
When you finish a writing assignment, follow up with your client to see how it went. What were the results? How can you help them with additional projects?
An initial project is just the beginning. Talk to your clients so that you can provide beneficial writing that help them meet their goals over weeks, months and years.
Be a True, Copywriting Pro to Boost Your Income.
Making more money as a copywriter is not difficult. You just need to avoid the five sins above. Provide good work on time, and communicate with your clients on a regular basis. This way, you will establish a long-term, working relationship where you both help each other succeed.
Now, what are you going to do today to get more copywriting projects?
For more help with your copywriting, please write to me here or visit www.rembrandtwrites.com.
